A Medical Power of Attorney, also known as a Power of Attorney for Personal Care in Ontario, is a vital legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust (your “attorney”) to make healthcare and personal care decisions on your behalf if you become incapable of making them yourself. This ensures your wishes are respected and your well-being is protected.
What Decisions Does a Medical Power of Attorney Cover?
Your appointed attorney can make a wide range of decisions related to your health and personal care, including:
- Medical treatment: Agreeing to or refusing medical treatments, surgeries, and other procedures.
- End-of-life care: Making decisions about life support and other end-of-life care options.
- Living arrangements: Deciding where you will live, whether it’s at home, in a long-term care facility, or elsewhere.
- Daily needs: Making choices about your housing, meals, clothing, hygiene, and safety.
Why is a Medical Power of Attorney Important?
- Control over your care: You choose who will make decisions for you, ensuring your values and wishes are honoured.
- Avoiding family disputes: A clear document can prevent disagreements among family members about your care.
- Reducing stress for loved ones: Your attorney can handle complex medical decisions, relieving your family of that burden during a difficult time.
- Ensuring your wishes are known: You can include specific instructions and preferences in your document.
Our Medical Power of Attorney Services Include:
- Guidance and advice: We explain the legal requirements and implications of a Medical Power of Attorney.
- Document preparation: We draft a clear, comprehensive, and legally sound document that reflects your wishes.
- Personalized approach: We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and preferences.
- Review and updates: We can help you review and update your document as your life changes.
Who Should You Choose as Your Attorney?
Your attorney should be someone you trust implicitly, who understands your values and wishes, and who is willing and able to make difficult decisions on your behalf. In Ontario, they must be at least 16 years old. It’s also wise to name an alternate attorney in case your first choice is unavailable.
Take Control of Your Healthcare Future
Planning for the future is an act of responsibility and care. A Medical Power of Attorney provides invaluable peace of mind, knowing that your healthcare decisions will be in the hands of someone you trust. Contact us today to learn more and create your personalized plan.
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
